Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) During IVF: Do I Need It?

PGD (Preimplantation genetic diagnosis) allows for the screening of embryos prior to implantation. During PGD, a cell is removed from one of the embryos created during in vitro fertilization (IVF), and this cell is analyzed in order to determine if genetic or chromosomal anomalies are present and if they can be removed. By removing a genetic anomaly such as an inheritable disease or chromosomal disorder, we are able to help ensure that any implanted embryos are healthy.

Do I need PGD with IVF? Your need for PGD will depend on your medical history and your partner’s. If either prospective parent has an inheritable genetic or chromosomal disorder, then it is possible your fertility specialist will recommend or offer screening. PGD can be recommended in cases of a specific condition or even due to a person’s ethnicity. For example, those of African or Middle Eastern ancestry may be tested for sickle-cell anemia, while those of northern European or Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry may be tested for cystic fibrosis. Other genetic diseases screened for through PGD are Tay-Sachs disease, Niemann-Pick disease, Gaucher’s disease, Canavan disease, Alpha-thalassemia, and Beta-thalassemia.

PGD can be used in cases where a specific chromosomal abnormality is passed down only to one gender. In such cases, patients are able to use gender selection in order to prevent their child from inheriting their condition. PGD may also be recommended in cases of recurrent miscarriage, when the female patient is unable to maintain a healthy pregnancy. There are currently no known risks associated with PGD testing.

If you believe you are in need of PGD prior to implantation during IVF, it is important to address these concerns early on during the fertility treatment process. Your fertility specialist will be able to help determine if a need for genetic testing is present and whether you and your partner are good candidates for the process. Fertility Solutions offers patients three different Advanced IVF Packages which are discounted IVF plans that included PGD.